Tesco launches used car buying website

Sadly, 'Buy One Get One Free' is not available on Tesco's latest products, but, as the retail giant opens its online-only showroom of used cars, it promises to still help customers save money.

Firstly, Tesco can supply directly to its customers through the website meaning there is no showroom and sales people working on commission. Also, the majority of the firm's cars will come from fleet or hire lease companies. Tesco promises that each vehicle will be given a full inspection by the RAC and HPI and the complete service history will be provided. The retailer also claims each car will be between six months and three years old and with only one previous owner. Tesco and the RAC offer a one month warranty on every car, too.

However, there is no option to drive-before-you-buy as the car showroom is only available online. Instead, Tesco provide pictures of the car and a video of the interior and the RAC inspection being carried out. Every other relevant bit of information is given as well including the car's history report and tax details. Potential buyers can arrange a viewing but would have to travel to see it as Tesco keeps the car until it is sold.

There is no room for negotiation on Tesco's cars, either, and the price that is set for each vehicle is the price the customer will pay. A £99 handling fee is added on when a car is pre-ordered but customers also have the option 'Buy Now' which is a quicker process. Although, with this option, customers have to collect the car themselves from a handover centre (which could be anywhere in the country) or can have it delivered for £149. Tesco's vehicles also don't come with road tax and customers will need this before they drive the car off the forecourt.

Despite the obvious drawbacks of this service, in that buyers will not be able to inspect or drive the car themselves before purchasing it, it does seem to be a quicker and easier way of buying a car. Normally, people will search the internet and travel to used car garages where they'll often haggle with dealers to get a good deal, but with Tesco Cars, they can find what they want, read all the necessary information and pay a basic price with no hidden commission fees.

Tesco also uses the new website to offer customers more of its products, including loans and breakdown cover.